Cybex International has announced that it is taking action against companies infringing on its patented Plate Loaded Leg Press, and its pending patents for the Bravo Functional Trainer. At the recent trade show of the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association in San Diego, Cybex saw four violations of its intellectual property. It demanded that the offenders cease and desist, and they reportedly have agreed. Cybex had a 10 percent drop in sales to $26.2 million for the first quarter ended March 27, with an improved operating loss of $792,000 compared with $2.0 million last year. The net loss was $753,000, against $1.4 million for the first quarter 2009. Revenues from cardiovascular equipment declined by 6.0 percent to $14.3 million, strength equipment fell by 13.0 percent to $9.0 million, and “other” declined by 17.0 percent to $2.8 million. Sales in the U.S. dropped by 16 percent, while the company did better aboard, reporting a 6 percent increase. The gross margin grew by 8.9 percentage points to 36.2 percent, boosted by cheaper steel, freight and warranties, and labor efficiencies. Though Cybex expects continued slow demand from fitness clubs, it expects growth in the future from new markets. In the second half of 2010, it is going to launch a strength line for professional and college sports teams.